He added: “The real issue here is that the board is passing these costs onto the community through the IJB.

“Under the new arrangements, the health board is meant to be transferring monies from acute services into the community. We are not seeing any evidence of this. Instead the third sector and local communities are being asked to do more with less funding, or indeed no funding at all.”

Councillor Rae MacKenzie said “The bottom line is that Bethesda has to raise an extra £100,000 on top of the £270,0000 they already need to raise – and that is just to break even.

“Bethesda provides a much-needed service. Some months its outgoings are greater than its income. This puts a huge burden on staff who are already working on less than favourable conditions to try and keep costs down.”

Councillor Murray has already written to the chair of the IJB requesting urgent action.

A Western Isles NHS spokesperson said: “Many staff and organisations contribute to delivering care and services for patients and their families at their most difficult times.

“Alongside Bethesda, the board equally values and appreciates all those who contribute. Western Isles health board has worked closely with Bethesda Hospice over the years to ensure that the best possible outcomes are being achieved by both parties, and at each review, agree the level of funding for the next period.

“NHSWI values and commends the services provided by Bethesda Hospice and will continue to work with colleagues at Bethesda to support patients and families in providing the best care possible.”